Some of the stories we find interesting that just might help your business succeed in this economy or any. If you want to leave a comment here, feel free. Or we can connect on Twitter @InsightADV or here is our advertising agency Facebook Page. Let's talk...
Social Media 2011
We spend a bunch of time learning and teaching about using social media for business. But, just how many folks are connected, what are their ages and what are they doing on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube? Here's a neat little video we found that helps answer that.
By the way...just "having a social media account" for your business won't fly. You've got to be able to use it effectively...like any segment of your marketing plan. OK? Tip of the Hat to my friend Steve SchraderBachar @MortgageMinute for the thought starter.
Branding Starts With...
We read lots about "branding" and we help our clients better understand what they must do to create a successful brand and...if they don't, what will sink it. We've always said that "the suits" or owners are not really in charge of "The Brand". The brand starts with the people who have real interaction with consumers. Last week a DirecTV tech came to our house to install service. He was amazing. Mike showed his ID at the door, put on little"booties" to walk into the house, took his time to explain everything, was cordial, professional and interested in what solutions he could bring to our needs. Contrast that with a Dish Network installer we had eight years ago who was gruff, didn't talk and was interested in how fast he could get in and out. Look, spend your time with line staff who come into contact with consumers and give them the training and pass on the passion to become great brand builders. It works.
Buying Local Builds Community
If you own a small business we feel your pain as you watch droves of holiday shoppers drive past your store and go to "Big Box". We understand that the dollars spent local, stay local. We get it and we're on a mission to spread the message. Imagine if shoppers changed their buying habit and switched 20% of their shopping to locally owned businesses... We're working, right now, on a project we think will drive local and we're hoping to announce at the start of 2012. More to come but between now and then impress to your friends, family and customers the importance of buying local. But remember, you must deliver the service that earns the business. Just being "local" isn't enough to earn consumer confidence. BTW: Here is a neat image Jack Huff (click to enlarge) from Adventure Lighting of Urbandale, Iowa posted last year. Pretty much sums up the story from the economic side of things and we likey!
Filming and Video
Last week our crew headed to Northwest Iowa to start work on a piece with the working title of "After the Harvest". Thought you might like to see just a bit of what things look like "behind the scenes".
And you wonder why GOOD television commercials and GOOD videos cost some serious money? We shot for three hours but lead in time, set up and planning took well over twenty. It's what we do...
Thanks for coming by and here's wishing you a fantastic week! - Michael
Some captivating resources you have posted above. I have to admit your brilliant work. Thanks for sharing this precious stuff.
Posted by: Logo Design | 12/12/2011 at 12:57 AM
Edward, thanks for reading and for the comment! - Michael
Posted by: Michael Libbie | 12/16/2011 at 09:10 AM